Yesterday I held a painting event, and like most of my events, I had my friends and family there. Even if others didn’t attend, I knew they were going to be there and it would be fun. I have my awesome support system and yesterday, I felt truly loved and valued.
I’m greatly blessed to have a truly amazing support system that shows up regularly for me and for my kids. Whether it is a soccer game or a myth talk, I know my mom will try to be there. Whether it is a party or a writing piece, I know my friend Bernie will help. Whether it is a grown up night out or string art fun, I know Celine will be there.
And that is the crux of it all – showing up and being there. Getting people to be a part of something, to get them out of the house, in the car, and presentable is hard work. Getting people to show up to a zoom is tough because it feels weird to most of us. Shoot, even getting someone to read something you wrote isn’t easy sometimes.
I’m not writing this because I have an answer – I don’t, I wish I did. I’m saying it’s hard! My creative friends know – it’s tough to put yourself out there … and no one shows up. It’s hard when you work for hours on a project to have it go unnoticed. I know we create for ourselves and that it feeds our souls and blah blah blah – but having someone show up is everything. I’m fortunate that I have the people I do because they are there – I understand a participation award – it’s not silly that everyone that participates gets an award because getting participation is the hardest part. Signing up, going to an event, reading your friend’s poem, visiting them …. Showing up – y’all deserve an award because just by showing up, you make a difference.
GallaMarrs 